matlab file names (.m) clearly readable inside a windows executable (.exe) file generated by Application Compiler

I find out that inside the executable file created by the Application compiler for windows platform, it is still possible to search for file names (and paths) of the functions used in the app.

Is there a way to strip them out from the .exe file, in order to hide any detail about the source code organization and function names?

Thanks.

Answer 1

[Himanshu Jain]

Although MATLAB® source code (.m) is executable by itself, the contents of MATLAB source files are easily accessed, revealing design and implementation details. If you do not want to distribute your proprietary application code in this format, you can use one of these options instead:

• Deploy as P-code — Convert some or all of your source code files to a content-obscured form called a P-code file (from its .p file extension), and distribute your application code in this format. When MATLAB P-codes a file, the file is obfuscated not encrypted. While the content in a .p file is difficult to understand, it should not be considered secure. It is not recommended that you P-code files to protect your intellectual property.MATLAB does not support converting live scripts or live functions to P-code files.
• Compile into binary format — Compile your source code files using the MATLAB Compiler to produce a standalone application. Distribute the latter to end users of your application.

For more information regarding both the options, you can refer to the following link -

https://in.mathworks.com/help/matlab/matlab_prog/protect-your-source-code.html

[Walter Roberson]

The user did compile to binary. However the names and hierarchy are still available if you look at the expansion of the CTF, and the user wants to know how to hide even the file names